Salinas by Purmamarca + Humahuaca in 2 Days

Salinas by Purmamarca + Humahuaca in 2 Days offers an inviting glimpse into the stunning landscapes and colorful towns of northern Argentina. For around $75, you get a well-structured, two-day journey that covers iconic spots like Cerro de 7 Colores, Salinas Grandes, and Humahuaca, plus an overnight stay in Purmamarca—an experience many travelers find unforgettable.

What we love about this tour? First, it includes visits to some of the most photogenic locations in the region, like the Salinas Grandes salt flats and the Paseo de los Colorados. Second, the option to stay overnight in Purmamarca allows for a more relaxed experience, giving you time to soak in the town’s charm and vibrant scenery without feeling rushed.

A possible downside? The long drives—about 500 km round trip—are unavoidable, and some reviews hint that this can be tiring, especially for senior travelers or those with limited mobility. Also, the tour’s schedule is packed, with limited free time in some towns, so if you’re looking for a leisurely, in-depth exploration, you might find it a bit rushed.

This tour suits travelers who want a rundown of Jujuy’s highlights, especially those eager to photograph the landscapes and appreciate local culture. If you’re comfortable with group travel and long bus rides, you’ll find plenty of value here.

Key Points

• Comprehensive two-day experience that covers major attractions in Jujuy.
• Includes overnight stay in the picturesque Purmamarca.
• Expert guides enhance the experience with local knowledge and fluent language skills.
• Focus on photogenic landscapes like Cerro de 7 Colores, Salinas Grandes, and Tilcara.
• Long travel distances can be tiring but allow for efficient sightseeing.
• Limited leisure time in some towns might require prioritization.

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

Overview and Price Analysis

At $74.99 per person, this tour offers a solid value for travelers eager to explore Jujuy’s most famous sites without the hassle of planning each stop independently. It includes transportation in a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle, plus the convenience of pickup and drop-off in Salta, making it accessible for most travelers. Food, accommodation, and entrance fees to some attractions are not included, so budget accordingly.

While the price might seem modest, especially for a two-day trip with an overnight stay, it reflects the group-oriented nature and the scope of sites covered. Many reviews praise the guide’s professionalism and knowledge, which significantly enhances the value.

Day 1: From Salta to Purmamarca and Beyond

Start early, with pickup between 7:00 and 7:45 am, giving you a chance to settle in and meet your guide. The first stop in Purmamarca begins right at the town’s entrance with the Mirador del Cerro de 7 Colores—an absolute highlight. The vibrant, layered mountains are a photographer’s dream, and the short 15-minute stop is enough to take some memorable shots.

Next, the ascent through the Cuesta de Lipan reaches over 4,700 meters above sea level. Here, the views are nothing short of breathtaking—imagine jagged peaks and expansive valleys, perfect for panoramic photos. Expect a 30-minute stop to enjoy the scenery and perhaps catch your breath at this altitude.

The visit to Salinas Grandes is a major draw. These salt flats are vast and surreal, spreading out as far as the eye can see. You’ll have about an hour to walk, take photos, and marvel at the crystalline salt deposits. Some travelers mention paying a small contribution to the local Aboriginal community—a detail worth preparing for. If you opt to visit the nearby Ojo de Mar or Piletones, everyone in your group needs to agree, as these are optional and involve additional contributions.

Afterward, you’ll return to Purmamarca for some free time—roughly an hour—for exploring the town or grabbing lunch. Many reviews recommend staying overnight here at least one night; it allows a more relaxed pace and the chance to soak in the town’s artistic vibe and stunning surroundings.

The final stop of the day is the Paseo de los Colorados, with a short 30-minute walk that offers striking views of the mountains behind Cerro de los 7 Colores. If you’re feeling energetic, you can ascend to the mirador within Purmamarca itself for an even better view—though this isn’t included in the tour.

Day 2: Humahuaca, Tilcara, and Return to Salta

The second day begins with a pick-up from Purmamarca around 10:30 to 11:30 am, heading toward Humahuaca. The town’s Cabildo and surrounding streets are free-to-explore for about two hours, giving you a chance to enjoy its colonial charm and vibrant local life. Many travelers find this a high point, especially if they enjoy wandering through historic plazas and tasting local cuisine.

Next, a visit to Tilcara offers a glimpse into local traditions, with a brief drive around its main square and surroundings. Many visitors praise the spectacular views from the route at Cerro Paleta del Pintor, a multicolored mountain in Maimara, a perfect photo stop.

The tour also includes a visit to the Church of Uquia, renowned for its frescoes of angels and saints—though note that access depends on whether the church is open on the day of your visit.

The journey concludes with a long drive back to Salta, arriving around 8:30 pm. The total distance covered is substantial, with the itinerary carefully balancing sightseeing with driving, but some reviews note that this can feel repetitive or tiring, especially for seniors.

Guides and Group Size

Most travelers agree that the guides are knowledgeable and friendly, with some reviews mentioning specific guides like Montserrat being particularly positive. Group sizes are limited to 23, which keeps things intimate enough to ask questions and enjoy some personal attention, though large groups can sometimes feel rushed.

Highlights and Authentic Encounters

The Salinas Grandes salt flats are a must-see—one traveler called it “a wonder”—and staying overnight in Purmamarca allows for a more authentic experience of its artistic, quiet charm. Many reviews describe Purmamarca as “unforgettable,” especially after a night there, away from the busier tourist spots.

The views of Cerro de 7 Colores are indescribable; the colors seem to change with the angle of the sun, making it a photo enthusiast’s paradise. You’ll love the opportunity to walk along the Paseo de los Colorados and get closer to the mountains, feeling the crisp mountain air.

Practical Tips and Considerations

While the tour is quite comprehensive, keep in mind the long bus rides—up to 3 hours each way—and the packed schedule. If your mobility is limited, you may want to prepare for some discomfort or consider opting for a more relaxed alternative.

Meals are not included, so budgeting for lunch and snacks is important. The towns visited do offer some local eateries, and many travelers enjoy trying regional dishes, especially in Humahuaca.

If you’re considering the overnight option, it truly enhances the experience, allowing you to explore without the rush and enjoy the evening atmosphere of Purmamarca.

Authentic Experiences and Traveler Feedback

Reviews reveal a mixed but generally positive picture. Many travelers praise knowledgeable guides and the stunning scenery, often describing the trip as a “trip of a lifetime”—especially when staying overnight. One traveler mentioned enjoying the vibrant local music scene after the overnight stay, showing how staying longer can deepen your connection with the region.

Some reviews highlight long drives and limited free time as drawbacks, but they also emphasize the value of seeing the key sites in just two days. A few travelers warn about the lack of English translation in some parts but generally find the guides helpful and fluent.

Final Thoughts

This 2-day tour from Salta to Purmamarca, Humahuaca, and Salinas Grandes offers a well-rounded, convenient way to see some of northern Argentina’s most breathtaking landscapes and charming towns. The inclusion of an overnight stay in Purmamarca makes it stand out, giving you a chance to relax and absorb the local atmosphere at a more leisurely pace.

If your goal is to see the highlights with a knowledgeable guide, enjoy spectacular photo opportunities, and experience authentic regional culture, this tour provides strong value—particularly if you’re prepared for the long days and busy schedule.

However, those seeking an ultra-relaxed or in-depth exploration of each town might find it a bit too packed, and the long bus rides could be tiring. It’s ideal for adventurous travelers who don’t mind a bit of travel fatigue in exchange for a comprehensive snapshot of Jujuy’s magic.

FAQ

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the tour uses an air-conditioned vehicle, which is generally comfortable for the long drives between sites.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations less than that are non-refundable.

Is food included in the tour?
No, meals are not included, so you should plan to bring snacks or buy lunch and drinks in the towns.

Do I need to pay extra for attractions like Salinas Grandes?
Some contributions are requested for visiting the salt flats and nearby sights, payable to local Aboriginal communities. These are optional but recommended.

What is the group size?
Tour groups are limited to a maximum of 23 travelers, promoting a friendly, intimate atmosphere.

Is overnight in Purmamarca necessary?
Many reviewers believe so, as it allows more relaxed exploration and avoids long back-and-forth travel.

Are guides fluent in English?
Most reviews mention guides speaking very good English, which helps make the experience more enjoyable.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable clothes, sun protection, camera, and some cash for tips or optional contributions. Weather can be cool at higher altitudes, so dress in layers.

To sum it up, if you want a well-organized trip that hits all the major sights of northern Argentina’s Jujuy province and are comfortable with long drives, this tour is a solid choice. The chance to stay overnight in Purmamarca makes it especially appealing for those wanting a more authentic, less hurried experience. Just pack patience, a good camera, and an appetite for stunning landscapes—and you’re set for a memorable two days.